Selena Buckner
Bio
Selena Buckner is a ceramic artist from Kansas City, Missouri. Her artistic style is composed of various elements from African and Mexican culture to visually represent her experience being a biracial woman. Geometric patterns and deep earth tones inspired by traditional Fulani pottery lay the framework of her art, while vivid florals and colors dance across the surface to soften and balance each individual piece. She uses each composition to uncover another layer of her heritage while taking the time to honor each culture’s individual beauty.
Working with ceramics since 2016, Selena Buckner received her Bachelor of Arts degree with an emphasis in ceramics and a psychology minor in December of 2018 from Missouri State University in Springfield, MO. She was selected to participate in the First Friday Art Walk Exhibition during her time in Springfield in 2018 as part of The Best of MSU Art and Design 3D Studies show at the Idea X Factory gallery.
Artist Statement
As a bi-racial woman, I spent many years of my life contemplating where I fit in the world, always feeling that I was too much, yet not enough at the same time. As a proud descendant of Mexican immigrants from Chihuahua and Guanaguato and a descendent of African slaves with a much less known history due to lack of documentation, this certain yet uncertain history caused me to seek belonging in different places and groups. It has never made sense until I was able to see myself represented in what I created.
My work is a culmination of my story and has allowed me a place to belong and truly be myself. My work is also a place where I make sense of my multicultural background, and where I find a way to see both of my cultures represented equally. It has always been difficult to find a balance between both sides, therefore I am intentional in intertwining and elements from both cultures to create the balance that I’ve sought after in my life.
With this triptych, I bring to life a concept that I have been visualizing for two years. Trying to maintain a constant balance of each culture can lead to neither culture being fully appreciated or honored and respected on its own. I feel that these pieces allow that to happen. On one side, I have created a piece that is inspired by traditional pottery from Fulani culture in its pattern and shape. The deeper earth tones to represent just how deeply rooted my Fulani ancestors are within my story. On the other side, I have created a piece that is inspired by traditional Mexican garments and Talavera pottery. The scalloped edge mimics the lace on the edge of dresses and the vivid florals bow to those found on blouses and traditional pottery. In the middle, I have created a piece with elements from the pieces on either side and therefore, have created a self-portrait of sorts.
I look forward to continuing my journey of self reflection and discovery through my work, and I hope those who experience these pieces will be inspired to take a moment to do the same while looking to their history to make sense of their futures.
Exhibitions
